Immune Modulators

Question 1

Immune modulators-

Answer 1

• Modify the actions of the immune system

- Include stimulants and suppressants

Question 2

Immune Stimulants-

Answer 2

Block the immune system when it needs help fighting a specific pathogen

Question 3

Immune Suppressants

Answer 3

Block the normal effects of the immune system in organ transplantation and autoimmune d/o’s

(Depress the immune system when needed to prevent transplant rejection)=increased susceptibility to infection and increased risk for neoplasms. NEED TO BE PROTECTED FROM INFECTION, INJURY AND INVASIVE PROCEDURES!!!)

Question 4

Immune modulators across the lifespan

Children-

Answer 4

Use with caution- monitor closely for infection, GI, Renal, Hematological or CNS effects

• Immune suppressants are needed in higher doses than adults
• Protect against infection and injury

Question 5

Immune modulators across the lifespan

Adults-

Answer 5

• Teach proper injection technique
• Avoid infection and injury
• Contraindicated in preg/lact- barrier method should be used
• Some drugs many impair fertility

Question 6

Immune modulators across the lifespan

Older Adults-

Answer 6

Aging immune system is less efficient and less responsive- more susceptible to drug effects

• Monitor renal and liver function to determine dosage
• More susceptible to infection- teach to avoid infection and injury

Question 7

Interferons-

Answer 7

• Naturally released from human cells in response to viral invasion
• Used to treat various cancers and warts

Question 8

Interleukins-

Answer 8

Communicate between lymphocytes, stimulate cellular immunity and inhibit tumor growth

Chemical produced by the T cells to communicate between leukocytes

Question 9

Colony-stimulating factor

Answer 9

Stimulate bone marrow to produce more WBCs